How do I disinfect or sterilize constraints?

First it is important to note we are not specialists in sterilization techniques. Any information provided by us should be double checked with experts in this area. For more information from the Center for Disease Control (CDC). The number is 800-342-2437.

Important Note: Care should be taken when using cleaning solvents and lubricants on Peerless High Security constraints. See FAQ question on care and maintainance of High Security constraints for more information.

There are a few different ways agencies/departments handle contaminated cuffs.

The first is to use commercial disinfectant products. The following are disinfectants/sterilization agents for use on hard non-porous surfaces. In general they are said effective against various Herpes, Influenza, HIV-1 (AIDS virus), tuberculosis and other organisms. They are easy to use and will not damage a nickel plated finish. These cleaners will effect Black Oxide or Pentrate finishes.

1.Medaphene Spray – available through Romaine Companies (800) 850-6985.

2.Redicide – available through Chemclean Corporation (800) 538-2436.

3.Staphene Spray – available through Calgon Vestal Laboratories (800) 345-7995.

Ultrasonic cleaning is another option. Many large agencies or departments have ultrasonic cleaning tanks for firearms maintenance. The same process can be used for cleaning and disinfecting constraints. We recommend two companies. Both offer Handcuff Cleaning kits using ultrasonic technology.

1.L&R Manufacturing - (201) 991-5330

2.Cuff Cleaner – (780) 973 – 6333 

Another option is to use a bleach bath. Mix 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Soak the cuffs for 10 min. and then following the instructions below. The bleach may cause the nickel finish to cloud or tarnish. Do not use this method for Black Oxide or Pentrate finishes.

Do not place cuffs in boiling water. This will effectively disinfectant or sterilize the cuff. It will also strip the cuff of any oil and cause heavy rusting.

After using appropriate sterilization techniques clean and dry the cuff. Use a hair dryer if necessary to force moisture out of the lock cavity. Avoid temperatures above 300° Fahrenheit.

After using appropriate disinfecting techniques it is very important to thoroughly clean and dry the restraint. The single strand pivot area and the internal lock parts are most important. Use a hair dryer if necessary to force moisture out of the lock cavity. Avoid temperatures above 300° Fahrenheit. If the internal parts are not thoroughly dry rusting and corrosion are likely leading to improper or poorly functioning constraints. All Peerless Handcuff Company constraints use stainless steel or nickel plated internal lock parts. This will help to stop rusting or corrosion issues. It will not prevent it.

Pentrate (black oxide) finishes may require more frequent lubrication and may tend to rust if not kept properly oiled.

Please remember to double check all advice given with experts in disinfectants/sterilization techniques.

What can I do if the black oxide finish is rusting or wearing thin?

Problems with rust and a Black-Oxide or Pentrate finish is not uncommon. Frequent lubrication is necessary particularly if the restraint is exposed to moisture. We recommend using a teflon based oil. Apply liberally making sure the oil has worked into the locking mechanism, double lock hole and single strand pivot area. After lubricating remove all excess oil from handling surfaces so the constraints are not slippery. A damp handcuff case can also lead to rusting. Make sure the inside of the case is dry before storing the cuffs.

The Black-Oxide or Pentrate finish will wear over time. It is possible to use a reblueing agent to return or maintain the dark finish and help prevent rusting. We recommend a product called BLACK MAGIC made by Kleen Bore (413-527-0300

Important Note: Care should be taken when using cleaning solvents, rebluing agents and lubricants on Peerless High Security constraints. See FAQ question on care and maintainance of High Security constraints for more information.

What can I do for restraint maintenance?

Use only approved restraining procedures such as the guidelines in our handcuff manual. Frequent review and practice of proper procedures will increase your safety and efficiency. Approved procedures will also help to ensure your constraints continue to function properly.

While Peerless constraints are designed and manufactured to take abuse avoid dropping onto or banging against hard surfaces.

When possible carry your constraints in a protective case to reduce exposure to outside elements. If exposed to moisture dry thoroughly. Most importantly, dry the inside locking mechanisms. The cuffs can be baked in a oven at low temperature (below 300° Fahrenheit) or placed on a heater. Re-oil following the instructions below.

When unlocking your restraint be careful not to torque the key guide post. This will loosen the post causing it to fall out. Also, be careful not to over rotate the key causing the key flag to break off or become stuck in the locking mechanism. Use extra caution when using oversize keys.

Maintenance:

constraints should receive regular care and maintenance. Inspect them frequently. Keep the ratchet and key hole free of dirt, lint or other foreign substances which may hinder proper functioning.

Routinely clean and lubricate using a Teflon based oil. Apply liberally making sure the oil has worked into the locking mechanism, double lock hole and single strand pivot area. After lubricating remove all excess oil from handling surfaces so the constraints are not slippery.

Pentrate (black oxide) finishes may require more frequent lubrication and may tend to rust if not kept properly oiled.

Important Note: Care should be taken when using cleaning solvents and lubricants on Peerless High Security constraints. See FAQ question on care and maintainance of High Security constraints for more information.

How do I clean and service High Security constraints?

Important Note:

Care should be taken when using cleaning solvents and lubricants on Peerless high security constraints. Different combinations of chemicals, temperatures and stress can have adverse affects on the LEXAN® thermoplastic lock housing parts. Follow the manufactures recommendations. Carefully evaluate all parts under end-use conditions for compatibility.

High Security constraints should receive regular care and maintenance. They should be routinely inspected for hidden damage and proper operation.

Whenever possible constraints should be carried in a protective case to reduce exposure to outside elements. Keep the ratchet area and key hole free of dirt, lint or other foreign substances which may hinder proper functioning.

Cleaning:

The following cleaning agents are generally compatible with LEXAN® material. They are intended for wiping or short-term immersion (less the 10 minutes). Complete immersion is not recommended and should be avoided. Care should be taken to remove all remaining cleaning agents with forced-air drying or warm water. Hot water above 140ºF should be not be used.

Aliphatics: Hexane, Heptane, White Kerosene Mineral Spirits, Petroleum Ethers (65º boiling point)

Alcohols: Methyl, Isopropyl and Isobutyl, 1 + 3 Denatured Alcohol

Others: Mild soap and water solutions, Fantasik®, Windex®, Joy®, Top Job®, Mr. Clean®, Formula 409®

Lubrication:

Routinely clean and lightly oil the ratchet area and double strand rivet area to insure proper operation. Periodically treat these surfaces with Teflon® based oil. Avoid getting any lubricants on the LEXAN® thermoplastic lock housing parts. Different lubricants can have adverse affects on the lock housing parts. Use mild soap and water to clean excess lubricants from the LEXAN® if necessary.

Please contact our office with any questions (800-732-3705)

This excerpt is  from Peerless Handcuff Co.  The above care suggests will apply to all the major brands of Handcuffs and constraints.